Ornamented Plaques
Unknown Artist
7th–9th century
Medium
Gold with turquoise inlay
Dimensions
Square plaque 1 1/16 x 1 1/16 in. (2.7 x 2.7 cm); rectangular plaque 1 1/16 x 9/16 in. (2.7 x 1.4 cm)
Classification
Metalwork
Culture
Eastern Central Asia or northern China
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, Barbara and William Karatz Gift, 2000
Accession Number
2000.442a–e
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Asian Art department of the Metropolitan of Art, these *Ornamented Plaques (7th–9th century) showcase the exquisite metalwork of Eastern Central or northern China. Craft by an unknown artist, the set includes a delicate square plaque measuring just 1 1/16 x 1 1/16 inches and a slender rectangular one at 11/16 x 9/16 inches. Acquired through the generous Barbara and William Karatz Gift 2000, these treasures highlight the sophistication of early medieval craftsmanship along ancient trade routes. Forged from pure gold and adorned with vibrant turquoise inlays, the plaques exemplif...